Code of Maryland Regulations
Title 10 - MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Part 1
Subtitle 03 - HEALTH STATISTICS
Chapter 10.03.01 - Vital Records
Section 10.03.01.05 - Death Registration - Fetal Deaths

Universal Citation: MD Code Reg 10.03.01.05

Current through Register Vol. 52, No. 6, March 21, 2025

A. A certificate for fetal death of 20 or more weeks gestation shall be filed regardless of the disposition of the remains.

B. If the gestation period is unknown, but the fetus weighs 350 grams or more, a fetal death certificate shall be filed.

C. A certificate for fetal death under 20 weeks gestation need not be filed unless the fetus is transported from place of delivery for cremation or private burial.

D. A fetal death certificate need not be filed if the gestation period is under 20 weeks and the remains are to be used for scientific or educational purposes by a hospital or other medical facility.

E. A dead fetus of any length of gestation may be cremated by a hospital if:

(1) The hospital has the facilities;

(2) The hospital obtains the written permission from the responsible parent or parents; and

(3) The case is not required to be referred to the Medical Examiner.

F. When a fetus of 20 or more weeks gestation period is retained or cremated by a hospital, the hospital administrator shall enter his name on the certificate as the funeral director or the person acting as funeral director.

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